Kolkata radiologist explains why young Indians in their 30s are experiencing joint pain earlier than before

From knees to hips, joint pain is affecting younger Indians in their 30s. Dr Avik Bhattacharya explains lifestyle and health factors behind this early onset.
Joint pain has long been associated with ageing, often thought to affect people in their 60s and beyond. But lately, more and more young adults in their 30s are reporting stiffness, swelling, and discomfort in their knees, hips, and shoulders. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Avik Bhattacharya, Interventional Radiologist, CK Birla Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, explains why joint pain is now hitting Indians much earlier than before. (Also read: Cardiologist reveals how a 37 year old Hyderabad man who ran 5 km daily, never drank or smoked, 'needed 2 heart stents’ )
What everyday habits worsen varicose veins
According to Dr Avik Bhattacharya, certain everyday habits can unknowingly worsen the condition.
“Prolonged sitting or standing without movement, and spending long hours in high heels, increase pressure on leg veins and impair blood flow,” explains Dr Bhattacharya. “Lack of physical activity weakens the calf muscles, which act as a natural pump for venous circulation, while excess body weight further strains already fragile veins.”

Even dietary factors can play a role. “Dehydration and low fibre intake can contribute by increasing blood viscosity and constipation, which raises abdominal pressure and worsens venous reflux,” he adds.
How can simple lifestyle changes help
Ignoring early signs such as leg heaviness, swelling, or visible veins can allow the condition to progress. However, Dr Bhattacharya emphasises that simple lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference: “Regular movement breaks, leg elevation, supportive footwear, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active can significantly slow disease progression and reduce complications.”
By making small, consistent changes, individuals can protect their veins, reduce discomfort, and prevent varicose veins from worsening over time.
Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHORAkanksha AgnihotriAkanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.Read More
Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.

E-Paper


